Search for Kalamazoo kayaker in Indiana

Authorities search the Flatrock River in Indiana for a kayaker from Kalamazoo. (Courtesy WISH - April 6, 2014)

COLUMBUS, Ind. (WOOD) — Authorities conducted a search Sunday for a kayaker from Kalamazoo believed to have capsized in an Indiana river.

Around 11:30 a.m., authorities in Bartholomew County, south of Indianapolis, were called to the Flatrock River in Columbus, Ind. after a call that a kayak had capsized, according to a release from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

(Courtesy WISH – April 6, 2014)

They learned the kayaker was Enrique Quinonez, 27, of Kalamazoo.

Quinonez and a friend launched their kayaks into Flatrock River near the East Fork of the White River, the DNR says. Not long after, Quinonez’s kayak capsized. He was pulled to a nearby tree by his friend, but then lost his grip and went under the water.

The DNR says Quinonez was not wearing a life jacket and that he cannot swim.

The Indiana DNR says its conservation officers are searching for Quinonez alongside the Bartholomew County Water Rescue Team. Early Sunday afternoon, they had sonar equipment headed to the scene to aid in the search.